INDIANAPOLIS – Former race-car driver John Andretti has died at the age of 56 after battling colon cancer.
His death was announced by the IndyCar team Andretti Autosport owned by his cousin, Michael.
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Andretti was a member of one of the world’s most famous racing families.
Mario and Michael Andretti have been longtime fan favorites in the IndyCar Series and beyond.
Mario Andretti is John’s uncle.
John Andretti carved out his own niche by becoming the first driver to attempt running the Indianapolis 500 and Charlotte’s 600-mile NASCAR race on the same day.
Martinsville Speedway issued the following statement following Andretti’s death
On behalf of everyone at Martinsville Speedway I want to share my deepest condolences to Nancy, Jarett, Olivia, Amelia and the entire Andretti family. John was a winner in everything he set out to do and always did it with class and dignity. One of my fondest memories with him was watching him celebrate his victory at Martinsville Speedway in 1999. Although John’s courageous battle with cancer might be over, his memory and legacy will be remembered for years to come by everyone who was fortunate to know him.
Clay Campbell - Martinsville Speedway, President